H3: Rowell's Row: The Clash between Blamey and Rowell at the height of the Kokada Campaign

In July 1942 Lieutenant General Syd Rowell* was given command of New Guinea Force. With forces in the Port Moresby area, at Milne Bay and near Kokoda, his task was to stem the Japanese advance over the Owen Stanley Ranges. When Japanese forces landed near Milne Bay in August the situation was looking dire. Under increasing pressure for results, Blamey was sent to New Guinea to take over operational command. What happened next was possibly the most controversial event in the Australian Army’s history.

The sacking of Rowell was not necessarily a purely operational decision, but one that was influenced by the commander of the South-West Pacific Area, General Douglas MacArthur. His desire for rapid victories, inability to manipulate Rowell and control of the Australian prime minister, John Curtin, were instrumental in Rowell’s removal.

Rowell’s dismissal demonstrates not just personal aggrandisement, but the willingness of Australia’s leader to accept the opinion of a foreigner over Australian commanders.

GUEST SPEAKER: Dr Justin Chadwick

Time: 1830 lecture begins: 1930 dinner

Members Price: $70.00: $15.00 lecture only

Non-Members: $80.00: $15.00 lecture only

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